The Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled against the legitimacy of Prof. Pat Utomi’s plan to form a shadow government in Nigeria, declaring it unlawful and unconstitutional.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment in a case filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) challenging the legality of Utomi’s proposal. According to the ruling, Utomi and his associates are barred from establishing any shadow cabinet or similar structure in the country.
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The court emphasized that the concept of a shadow government or shadow cabinet is alien to Nigeria’s presidential system and violates the nation’s constitution. Justice Omotosho stated that while citizens are entitled to freedom of association and expression, these rights cannot be used as a cover for illegal or destabilizing activities.
The ruling also acknowledged the DSS’s role in protecting national security, noting that the agency acted within its mandate to prevent actions that could threaten internal stability.
This decision effectively ends the push for an alternative government framework, reinforcing the constitutional boundaries of political participation in Nigeria.